Networks are built with a combination of computer hardware and computersoftware.
Here’s a quick, simplified look at the fundamental concepts of networking.
Types of Computer Networks
Networkscan be categorized in several different ways.

Getty Images
One method defines the jot down of a web connection according to the geographic area it spans.
Alternatively, networks can also be classified based on topology or on the types of protocols they support.
Wired (and hybrid wired/wireless) networking also involves cables of varying types.

deepblue4you/Getty Images
Finally, large-scale enterprise networks, in particular, often employ other advanced equipment for specialized communication purposes.
Ethernet
Ethernetis a physical and data link layer technology for local area networks.
Homes, schools, and offices around the world all commonly useEthernet-standard cablesand adapters to data pipe personal computers.

CCO
Bluetooth is anotherwireless protocolcommonly used in cellular phones and computer peripherals for short-range web link communication.
TCP/IP and Other Internet Protocols
TCP/IP is the primarynetwork protocolof the internet.
Switches use much of the same technology as routers but typically support local area networks only.

Todor Tsevetkov/E+/Getty Images
Bridging allows messages to flow between two different types of physical networks.

Getty Images

Getty Images

Grassetto/Getty Images